Tribute to Coach Sandra Kay Yow

Tribute to Coach Sandra Kay Yow

To quote from Billy Graham’s book Life Wisdom he states: “God measures people by the small dimensions of humility and not by the greatness of their achievements or the size of their capabilities. God wants us to have compassion on those who are suffering and do what we can to help.” Coach Yow’s humility and compassion reached and touched thousands. Her outlook on life was one of hope, encouragement and glorifying her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Coach Yow praised Him for the accomplishments and blessings bestowed upon her. Now she sees Jesus face-to-face and is laying down at His feet any honors she’s received here on earth. He must receive the credit.

Coach Yow was an amazing individual and it was a privilege and honor to play for her, to coach alongside her and to serve on her Foundation’s Board of Directors. I met Coach Yow in 1976 and I’ve been blessed for 33 years to witness the positive impact she’s had on thousand’s of lives across the world. She’s impacted no other life more than she has mine. Below are my thoughts about who this inspirational person was to me:

She lived life with purpose and meaning.
She valued friendships and respected others.
She kept her priorities straight.
She lived with moral integrety and ethical values.
She always wanted to do what was right.
She searched for truth as truth always stands the test of scrutiny.
She surrounded herself with Faith, Family, and Friends.
She was a true leader. A leader’s most powerful ally is her own example.
She was a parent to many.
She was inquisitive and had a playful demeanor that was fun.
She had a great sense of humor and loved life.
She was grateful and thankful.
She was loving and giving.
She made us feel good about ourselves.

She gave guidance and direction.
She made commitments and kept them.
She had rock-solid Character – it is what you really are.
She kept life in perspective and balance.
She led by example and her reputation reflected her love for others.
She displayed and practiced good judgment and common sense.
She epitomized a gentle, kind and sincere spirit.

She emphasized to play together as a team.
She taught others to be their best.
She possessed a passion and enthusiasm for sport.
She was loyal to her team and University.
She held her players responsible for how well we fulfilled our responsibilites and took advantage
of opportunities.
She taught hard work and to give your very best. There is no substitute for hard work.
She was a competitor and was driven, but she was prepared and executed her game plan.

She was a Peacemaker.
She was honest…honest to others, to herself and to God.
She “walked the walk and talked the talk”.
She was a great ambassador for Her Lord and Savior.
She had spiritual depth that was required to do the work of God.
She wanted no credit or glory….she wanted Jesus to have it all.
She understood, tolerated, overcame and outlasted adversity until the very end.
She never retired….she just went to a another place (Heaven) to coach.

Below is the poster I have hanging on my office wall. It reminds me of the life Coach Yow lived. That life lived was one of a servant…always giving back to others. May I have the courage and strength to be half the person she was. A coach, a mentor, a teacher and a true friend. She was a Godly woman who loved life and people, especially her Wolfpack Family. Rest in peace “thy good and faithful servant”.
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Poster of Kay Yowisms

When Life Kicks You…Let It Kick You Forward.
Don’t wallow in self pity: swish your feet and get out.
It’s what’s inside that counts.
You can’t change the direction of the wind, but you can adjust your sails.
Shake it off and step up. Don’t panic.
A kite rises against the wind.
Give and Pray for others. Count your blessings.
Accept what you cannot change.
Think positive. Never, ever give up. Don’t Quit.
With God nothing is impossible.
Spirits can be lifted together.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Live one moment at a time.
Be thankful everday.
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Connie Rogers-Newcome
Class of ‘82
NC State Wolfpack Woman

Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Foundation

Mission Statement: The Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund, in partnership with The V Foundation, is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization committed to being a part of finding an answer in the fight against cancer through raising money for scientific research, assisting the underserved and unifying people for a common cause.